Famous Sad Poem

We are often in such a hurry in life that we move from one thing to the next without stopping to notice the beauty around us. Famous poet W.H. Davies (1871-1940) reminds us that life passes by quickly, and he encourages readers to take moments to “stand and stare.” W.H. Davies was a Welsh poet who devoted himself to writing poetry in his late 20s. Many of his poems were filled with themes of hardship and the natural world.

Featured Shared Story

This is a wonderful poem and has always been one of my favourites. At this time of lockdown restrictions and protecting ourselves, we have that time to stop and look at the world - to enjoy...

Read complete story

Share your story! (2)

Famous Poem

Leisure

By W. H. Davies more W. H. Davies

What is this life if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare

No time to stand beneath the boughs,
And stare as long as sheep and cows

No time to see, when woods we pass,
Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass

No time to see, in broad daylight,
Streams full of stars, like skies at night

No time to turn at Beauty's glance,
And watch her feet, how they can dance

No time to wait till her mouth can
Enrich that smile her eyes began

A poor life this if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare

more W. H. Davies

Stories 2
Shares 1676
Favorited 28
Votes 236
Rating 4.44

Read More Famous Sad Poems

Has this poem touched you? Share your story!

by Ann D. Stevenson, Gloucestershire, UK
1 month ago

I too have always loved this poem and agree wholeheartedly with its overriding message. Ann

by Heather Jeffrie
3 years ago

This is a wonderful poem and has always been one of my favourites. At this time of lockdown restrictions and protecting ourselves, we have that time to stop and look at the world - to enjoy its beauty and even to look at making sure it is protected for the future. COVID has been horrible and devastating, but it has also given us a chance to take stock of our lives. The question is that when we get back to normal, how many of us will continue to see the beauty in the world and take that time to stop and stare and enjoy what we have.